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2 clusters · 3 sources · 4 days · First seen · Last updated

Netball New Zealand privatization negotiations

Overview

Netball New Zealand has abandoned plans to privatize its elite domestic competition following the collapse of negotiations with investors Anna Mowbray and Ali Williams. The discussions, which lasted eight weeks, followed the signing of a non-binding term sheet in August 2026 intended to establish a private franchise league for 2027.

Chief Executive Jennah Wootten stated that while the parties initially shared an ambition to strengthen the sport, the discussions eventually shifted away from the objectives and principles originally outlined in the term sheet. The national body had sought private investment to offset projected annual losses of up to $6 million, including $3.7 million in operational costs for the ANZ Premiership.

Mowbray and Williams expressed devastation over the decision, noting they were notified of the termination via email without prior consultation or detailed justification. The collapse leaves the future of the premier netball competition for 2027 uncertain.

Entities

Jennah Wootten · Anna Mowbray · Netball New Zealand · Ali Williams · Auckland FC

Timeline

  1. [SPORTS] 2 sources
    Netball New Zealand cancels private league deal with investors

    Netball New Zealand has abandoned plans to privatize its elite domestic competition after failing to reach an agreement with investors Anna Mowbray and Ali Williams.

  2. [SPORTS] 2 sources
    Netball New Zealand abandons private league proposal

    Netball New Zealand has scrapped plans to privatize its elite domestic league after failing to reach an agreement with investors Anna Mowbray and Ali Williams.

Sources

ministryofsport.com · nzsportswire.com · tradewire.net